In a remarkable breakthrough for high-performance computing and artificial intelligence, the CSC – IT Centre for Science and Surf, in collaboration with Nokia, successfully tested a quantum-safe fibre-optic connection capable of transmitting data at speeds exceeding 1.2 terabits per second (Tbps). This trial, which covered over 3,500 kilometers from Amsterdam to Kajaani in Finland, serves as a pivotal demonstration of how advanced network infrastructures can unlock the full potential of AI and large-scale computations.
The Significance of High-Speed Data Transfers
The exponential increase in research data, especially in fields like AI and machine learning, highlights the urgent demand for secure, resilient, and high-throughput network connectivity. As noted by industry experts, the rising complexity of AI models necessitates more robust infrastructures to handle the vast datasets used for training these systems. “The need for resilient, high-throughput and secure connectivity is more critical than ever,” stated a representative from the CSC [Computer Weekly].
The successful completion of this trial is particularly relevant as the research community prepares for the upcoming Lumi-AI supercomputer. The Lumi supercomputer, one of Europe’s most powerful supercomputers, delivers a sustained computing power of 380 petaflops, making it an essential platform for AI applications. The ability to conduct high-speed data transfers will support the supercomputer’s operation and open up avenues for innovative research initiatives.
Unpacking the Trial’s Achievements
The extensive tests involved networking routes that spanned various geographies, including a notable stretch of 4,700 kilometers through Norway, where speeds reached 1 Tbps. This significant achievement may act as a blueprint for subsequent supercomputer and AI factory infrastructure. “These results are particularly promising as the research community prepares for supercomputers and AI factories to come online,” remarked an official from Surf.
Data transfers during the trials utilized both real and synthetic datasets, ensuring the robustness of the network’s performance. The data was transferred directly from disk to disk—from Surf’s facility in Amsterdam to CSC’s data center in Kajaani—across five operational research and education networks, including Surf in the Netherlands, Nordunet in the Nordic region, Sunet in Sweden, Sikt in Norway, and Funet in Finland.
The technology driving these breakthroughs was based on Nokia’s advanced IP/MPLS routing coupled with quantum-safe optical networking equipment. The introduction of Flexible Ethernet (FlexE) allowed for the accommodation of “elephant flows,” which refers to the significant and continuous data transfers required in high-performance computing environments. “Our high-capacity optical transport technology demonstrated its capability to handle massive data generated by HPC over considerable distances,” explained Mikhail Lenko, customer solutions architect at Nokia.
Future Implications for Research and Development
The implications of this successful collaboration are far-reaching. As Jani Myyry, senior network specialist at CSC, noted, “We design research networks with future needs in mind.” With the Lumi supercomputer already operational and the Lumi-AI supercomputer on the horizon, reliable and scalable data connections are essential for supporting ongoing research and educational pursuits throughout Europe. The geographical distance between data centers poses no barrier to data traffic, which is crucial as datasets continue to grow exponentially.
The advancements also align with broader trends in global networking, as organizations strive to enhance their capabilities in handling immense volumes of data. According to a report by Statista, global internet traffic surpassed 4.8 zettabytes in 2022, with projections suggesting this figure could reach 6.5 zettabytes by 2023. This underlines the necessity of networks that can efficiently manage such colossal data flows.
Conclusion
The success of the CSC, Surf, and Nokia trial signifies a substantial leap towards addressing the infrastructure demands of modern AI and computing applications. As the landscape of research continues to evolve, such innovative collaborations will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for future technological advancements, enabling researchers and scientists to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Quick Reference Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Connection Speed | Exceeds 1.2 Tbps |
| Distance | 3,500 km (Amsterdam to Kajaani) |
| Supercomputer Power | 380 petaflops (Lumi) |
| Participating Networks | Surf, Nordunet, Sunet, Sikt, Funet |
| Main Technology Used | Nokia IP/MPLS and quantum-safe optical networking |
| Data Transfer Method | Disk-to-disk, real and synthetic data |